GENEVA (25 August 2023) – The UN Special Rapporteur on toxics and human rights, Marcos Orellana, will conduct an official visit to Australia from 28 August to 8 September 2023.

During his 10-day visit, the Special Rapporteur will examine the human rights situation related to the environmentally sound management and disposal of hazardous substances and waste in the country. He is particularly interested in identifying good practices in this regard.

Orellana will meet with Federal, State, and Territory Government authorities, non-governmental and civil society organisations, academic experts and scientists, individuals and communities. He will visit the Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia.

The expert will hold a press conference on Friday 8 September from 12:00 to 13:00 (local time) in Sydney (at the Rydges World Square Hotel, 389 Pitt Street, Sydney). Access will be strictly limited to journalists.

The Special Rapporteur will present his report to the Human Rights Council in September 2024.